DSE & Workstation Assessments

All users of display screen equipment at work must be assessed to ensure they are working safely – assessments for pc’s, laptops, tablets etc.

Bad backs, sore heads, eye strain, hand and arm aches… these can all be symptoms of sitting at a PC or workstation for prolonged periods. As like most of us you probably use a computer at work and give little thought to the hazards that it presents when we use it daily. Computers and workstations are also associated with neck, shoulder, back or arm pain, as well as eyestrain and fatigue.

Computers, monitors etc. are referred to as Display Screen Equipment (DSE). The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) states that DSE equipment is ‘a device or equipment that has an alphanumeric or graphic display screen, regardless of the display process involved’. This includes normal display screens found on computers and machinery but also includes laptops, tablets, touch-screens and other similar devices.

An assessment of the workstation must be carried out for every employee to ensure they are using it correctly and aim to reduce the potential risks to you and your staff. Injuries, aches and pains can be

avoided if users workstations are set up correctly, workers safe working techniques, use the aids they have correctly and take regular screen and postural breaks during excessive use. Simple precautions can make workstations more
comfortable and employees more productive as well as keeping you on the right side of the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992.